12/09/2009

It Was Cold at Valley Forge

Last night, our Repro Divas leader took us on a visit to Valley Forge, Christmas Time; we heard about George Washington and especially about how Martha Washington was there during that terrible winter and did so much to help out (from the New York Times, 1899):

In fact, Martha came to visit us in one of her loveliest dresses!

Martha made every stitch of the garments she is wearing herself, exactly according to the most popular and typical fashion of her day.

She brought us Shrewsbury Cakes, Joe Froggers, and mulled cider, just as she was doing for the troops. She showed us all the details of her outfit, from panniers to chemise to corset, which she would not have done for the troops. She also showed us this lovely quilt she made using the Hunter Star ruler sent to her from the future:

note the lovely Watteau pleating in the dress back...

Our leader, Kathy, made this patriotic quilt for her husband (who loves to read about history) for Christmas:

Show and Tell followed; this gorgeous quilt is a Christmas gift:

a Hunter Star table runner:

We had a suggested theme of red and green for this month's Show and Tell:

Cute!

Here is mine (28" x 32"). The background is a washed-out green:

We exchanged huswifs!

This is the one I brought home, made by N. Thank you, I love it and will love using it!

And finally, Martha and George (aka Noble Leader Kathy) gave us each the assignment (written on parchment, rolled and tied) for next meeting: make something using the fabric gift below:

This oughta be good! Stay tuned (by the way, any ideas for what to make with it?).

13 comments:

Wow! It looks like a great time with a lot of inspiration. I love history and anytime history and quilting can be brought together is good!I jsut finished a Geo Washingotn medallion quilt. That panel is so lovely!

Hi Karen, Great posting. You helped me learn what I missed in class, 'cause I was late. The little blues dresden pattern came from Galloping Pony. I just love it. Fun to make and so verstile. I also got the idea to add the lace from some of her designs, too. I'm glad you got it. it was fun to make.